East London teachers and pupils singled out for defying the odds have been nominated for awards at a ceremony hosted by nonprofit organisation Ulwimi Lwenkobe SBM.
The organisation celebrates teachers and pupils who have played important roles in promoting education.
Bhongolethu Senior Secondary, Ulwazi High, Ebenezer Majombozi High, Lumko High, Khanyisa School for the Blind and Khulani High have all received nominations for the prestigious awards.
Award categories include Best isiXhosa Poet, Best isiXhosa Teacher, Best Principal, Best Female Model, Best Male Model, ULSBM Student of the Year, Best School, Lifetime Achievement Award and Viewers’ Choice Award.
The organisation provides support to empower pupils and teachers while championing isiXhosa as a language through various initiatives.
Led by Sikelela Malawu it works to celebrate and preserve the rich Xhosa cultural heritage.
Malawu said the event honours those who have contributed tirelessly to the preservation and promotion of their language and heritage.
Winners receive a cash prize, an award and a certificate of recognition.
The voting lines have been opened for people to vote for their favourite teachers and pupils.
Malawu said he hoped the awards encouraged teachers and pupilsto embrace the language.
“Most teachers and pupils are drained both physically and emotionally by their educational work, so as the organisation it came to my attention that we should honour them,” he said.
“We want to show them we see the good work, especially when it comes to isiXhosa, and it is truly appreciated.”
“We decided to choose from the schools that have been working with us and helping us in promoting our vision”
The awards ceremony will be held at the University of Fort Hare’s Miriam Makeba Art Centre in East London.
DispatchLIVE
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.